Wells to decide whether to remove fluoride from drinking water

The Town of Wells met to discuss the future of its public water supply, specifically discussing if fluoride should be removed from the town’s drinking water.

The big endorsement of the proposal came from the Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Wells Water District, saying fluoride in drinking water is an outdated practice.

Tuesday night at town hall, advocates for both sides are expected to help better inform voters before November.

The question of taking fluoride out of the water supply came earlier this summer when a group started collecting signatures to get the question on the ballot.

They ended up collecting more than 3,200.

Officials say fluoride was originally added to prevent tooth decay, but those who want it removed argue there’s enough fluoride in toothpaste and other products that consuming it in the water as well could be a health risk.

Town officials say most year round residents are on well water, they’re unsure if those who use public water will even vote.

The KKW Water District also supplies Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Ogunquit, Arundel and parts of York and Biddeford.